Fire department is 75 years old in 2014

NEWFOUNDLAND - Greene Dreher Volunteer Fire Association in Newfoundland is hosting their annual parade this Sunday, July 6 at 4 p.m. Their picnic will be held July 4, 5 and 6.

The community is welcome to the picnic, which starts at 5 p.m., Friday the 4th and on Saturday, and immediately after the parade on Sunday. The picnic is at the grove near the fire station on Crestmont Drive. Live bands play each day: The McWilliams Brothers on Friday, Most Famous on Saturday and Flyin' Blind on Sunday.

A major fundraiser for the fire company, funds are generated through sale of food and playing games at the picnic. There is no admission charge.

Greg Mattern, President of the Greene Dreher Volunteer Fire Association, noted that 2014 is the 75th anniversary of the fire company. The parade and picnic have been held annually for approximately 35 to 40 years.

Lineup for the parade is at 3 p.m. in the field by Privacy Pines off Route 507. The parades goes through town and ends at the picnic grounds by the fire station. Fire apparatus from various fire departments, floats from community organizations and businesses are among the featured parade participants.

In commemoration of their 75th anniversary, Mattern said that the Greene Dreher Volunteer Fire Association plans to start fund-raising for a new rescue engine.

Motorists should note that Main Street and Route 447, Panther Road, will be closed for the parade.

The Greene Dreher Volunteer Fire Association is an organization of dedicated volunteers that provide fire protection and emergency response service to the western half of Greene Township, Pike County; all of Dreher Township and the southern portion of Sterling Township in Wayne County, as well as mutual aid response to surrounding areas.

For more information about the Greene Dreher Volunteer Fire Association, call 570-676-4207 or visit www.greenedreherfire.org.